Warning sign for HRT users that could show you have a raised risk of cancer By Meike Leonard Published: 18:22 EDT, 21 September 2024 | Updated: 18:30 EDT, 21 September 2024 e-mail View comments Britain's top menopause specialists have released a warning for women who bleed while on high doses of hormone replacement therapy. It comes after a surge in cases of patients on the drugs being sent for cancer tests. Guidance from the British Meno­pause Society (BMS) reassures women that bleeding is a common side effect within three to six months of starting or changing HRT.

But the document states that unexpected bleeding could be a warning sign that HRT dosing is not quite right and advises women to speak to a GP or specialist about adjusting the amount or type of medication. Surging use of HRT – and risky high dose prescribing – is thought to be behind the increase in women reporting unexpected bleeding over the past few years. Guidance from the British Meno­pause Society (BMS) reassures women that bleeding is a common side effect within three to six months of starting or changing HRT.

(Stock image) The guidelines clarify that any bleeding should be reported to a GP as it could require a change to the dose of HRT. (Stock image) Rather than immediately seek referral to a gynaecologist, women are instead advised to monitor their unexpected bleeding. (Stock image) Surging use of HRT is thought to be behind the increase in women reporting unexpected bleeding over the past few yea.